Personal Health Record Toolkit

Personal Heath Records (PHRs) allow individuals to access and maintain their heath information using various media that the patient elects including web services. This area contains information for consumers regarding the basic features of PHRs; including the type of information that should be recorded, the different ways your PHR can be created and stored, privacy and security safeguards , and a glossary of Health Information Technology terms.

Being prepared with an organized personal health record (PHR) can offer you and your family greater security, peace of mind, and many other benefits during an emergency situation, such as a hurricane, or as a medical resource at any time.

A PHR is any organized system you maintain for documenting you and your family members’ personal information, health conditions, medicines, health care providers, medical procedures, medical test results, and special needs. There are free forms and guidelines available as well as other products for purchase that can help you create a PHR for you and your family. There are two basic types of Personal Health Records; paper documents and files that are best maintained in waterproof and transportable containers, and Electronic Personal Health Records (ePHR).

Six reasons to use an ePHR

1. Anywhere Access - Authorized individuals can access an ePHR any place at any time if you choose an internet ePHR;
2. Access Control - You control access to part or all of your ePHR information;
3. One Place Location - An ePHR means your health information is located in one place for easy availability;
4. Continuous Record Regardless of Change - An ePHR can follow you over a lifetime regardless of changes in physicians, residences, insurance plans, etc.; and
5. Electronic Information Exchange - An ePHR may enable you to electronically transfer information between other health information systems and professionals as authorized.
6. Portability – ePHR health information can be downloaded onto a CD or flash drive to take with you in the event of evacuation during a disaster.